A glean of trouvaille

Vying outside the door, by secrecy, for the desire of figuring out what's famishing my insides.

[ellegals]

5 Destinations You Should Not Miss Visiting in Baguio City

(The Summer Capital of the Philippines)

Baguio City is one of the coldest city in the Philippines. This country may be tropical but because this city is located in the highlands, pine trees grew everywhere and temperature is low.

It was a fine sunny day when we got to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The ride from the airport to Baguio City was  almost 6 hours through bus. It was such a long road trip. When we were almost there we experienced loud drops on the ceiling of the bus, a heavy rain was the gate to the city. All the hotness from Metro Manila got away with the coldness of the place.

“So here we are!” I told my friends. The weather made me remember of solitude. What a beautiful place to unwind.

So with all the busy schedules because of the everyday performance, we only had food trips around the SM CIty Baguio. Well, besides fast food chains. *chuckles*

We had Yakiniku from a Japanese restaurant and Baby Back Ribs in Don Henrico’s. I really enjoyed the food. Probably, the place I’d look back to when I visit again.

So now, let us begin to the places that you should not miss in Baguio.

1. Burnham Park

This is called the Roses’ Park. It is better to get there early in the morning where morning dews are beautifully coating the flowers. Like the flowers itself were saying Good Morning.

2. The Lion’s Head

The ever famous landmark in Baguio. They painted it lighter than before. This lion used to be black and in the photos, I thought it was a gorilla but I’m super damn wrong. HAHA. Anyways, this spot is more or less 1 hour away from the city proper. You can also buy some Pasalubong below the statue. There is also a vendor selling a strawberry ice cream with real strawberry strips. So this leads to our next stop.

3. Strawberry Farm

At La Trinidad, Benguet.

MMM-MMM STRAWBERRIES! The Strawberry Farm is really wide and quite far. Sunflowers and other vegetables are also planted in the farm. Unfortunately, May is not the peak season for strawberries so we only captured little strawberries from their incubated houses. We tour almost half of the farm searching for strawberries, even if it’s muddy. We enjoyed taking pictures with my friends and recording videos of our hilarious trip. Sadly, I cannot upload it right here.

The sunflowers were really big. I wasn’t able to see one in my whole life ‘til I got there. 

The largest corn I’ve ever seen is also here.

Look at that big bite you got there!

4. Mines View Park

This park is such a beaut. With only Php 20, you can wear this traditional dress of Igorots.

And well of course, good food at Rumah Sate.

5. The Mansion

Nobody could ever miss this huge gate of the masion. Blogger post!

Just a walk away is another beautiful spot that can be enjoyed with these sweet treats. *wink*

There are lots of other tourist spots in Baguio and most of them are rides away. The taxi fare starter is Php 30.00 only so it’s not that much to spend.

TIPS:

a. If you choose to stroll around starting in the morning, don’t wear thick clothes or sweater because it’s still warm in day time.

b. If you’re a person like me who gets really cold when exposed to cold city breeze, bring a bonnet and/or a jacket. I bet you’ll need it at night, especially when you want to go to the NIGHT MARKET filled with lots of fun foods to grab and clothes to shop.

c. Travel with the ones you love. It is the secret of a strong relationship.

Experience Philippines. Enjoy Baguio. Carpe Diem.

[ellegals]

A gallery of beautiful sunflowers: A floralls-inspired

[ellegals]

labyrinth

If love is a labyrinth Let it confuse me Torture me Take me to its extremity I'd be lost or worse I'd be cursed Let it be Let me be lost happily And never be found again.

[ellegals]

Wind of Death

I am a dandelion who wishes to fly I have been told that if I did, I would die That every piece of me on the ground would lie But I'd rather be kissed by the wind up so high Turned into pieces but at least I tried

[ellegals]

To The Guy I Know I’ll Never Have

This is the hardest thing to control. I’ve been drastically consumed by your all. I love it when you come closer and whisper because I can smell the natural scent of your skin. I always feel warm when you hug me, it’s different, because it came from you. I miss those times that I’m brushing your hair just to make you fall asleep. I told you I’ve always wanted your company. Even when you always request for something to eat because you’re always hungry. Even when you play your playlist with songs I don’t understand to be music. Even when you spontaneously tease me just to make me mad but you’re too cute, I cannot fight back.

I gave you my time, even my day just to let you feel you’re not alone. Just to let you know, you have me at least. I know. I am never after any reciprocal feelings or attention because I know my place. I know that there can’t be an us. And you calling me whenever you’re hurt or whenever you’re happy is enough for me because at least I know you’ve thought of me, even in the little things of your life.

On the brighter side, friendship lasts forever. We have our own little infinity. You assured me of it. I will be forever thankful that you come across my life. I’ve learned to value aspects that I know I can do much about but own less.

Don’t you worry, I’m satisfied of this setting that we are in. I will always and forever be with your side, be true to you and be the one who will let you feel you’re being loved even all else will turn around you.

[ellegals]

Power Waterfall

Who wants to escape from the stressful city state? Come on, raise your hands up high! It’s so good to have some place to de-stress just around the corner ---not getting away too far and not spending much.

Amidst of the busy schedule in my summer classes and rehearsals in Kalimulan, I managed to have nature to unwind. I undertook another power waterfall, the Dodiongan Falls in Iligan City. This enormous 65 feet high waterfall is such a beaut. After a long, exhausting walk, its majestic feels gave us a gift of relief. Added that it offers a cold soothing waters where we can swim and eradicate the summer heat.

The experience is incomplete without climbing to the top of the waterfall. We climb with knees and jaws touching each other because of how highly sloped the way to the top is. As we climb higher and higher, I always tell myself ‘don’t look down, just climb’. I’m afraid of heights but I get to the top. It’s an accomplishment, isn’t it? Tap my back, please. Another unforgettable experience was the perfect hues and music of nature all the way to the top. And the way down? The way down was a real struggle. It’s more dangerous than I thought because there are parts that sliding is the only thing to do because how slippery the mountain (or waterfall side) is.

(Credits: Limer Lopez)

So, how’s your summer going on? I hope you spare it with fun.

(Credits: Kate Sebial)

[ellegals]

7 Things You Should Try This Summer

Summer is finally here! Wohoo! We’ve been waiting for this the whole year round. This is the season where we enjoy the company of our family under the heat of the sun or maybe just our comfort food, books and, our ultimate crush, bed. Just please say goodbye to movie marathons and good reads. Leave it on Christmas break. Let us make this summer MEMORABLE in a way. Try something you’ve never tried or something you’re afraid of trying. No one should ever be spending summer with so dull routines anymore. So here are my suggestions to spice up your summer this 2015.

1. Opt for an adventure

Island hopping, cliff-diving, mountain climbing; these are few of the things you should try, at least ONCE in your life. If you’re a kind of a person who loves adventure and nature this is perfect for you. This is the time to unwind and forget the stressful city state you’re absolutely used to. You should be giving yourself space, time, water and air. Nothing is more priceless than the mountain and sea breeze. Not to mention the thrill of taking risks.

2. Do some DIY

Your sense of creativeness is just hiding within you. You’re probably thinking that crafts and art materials don’t fit for you because you cannot draw or paint or do calligraphy even but you should think twice, girl. EVERYTHING CAN BE DIY-ed. Youtube videos about DIY stuffs are too much to hold. Plus, the things you will need are just at home. Very simple yet fulfilling. Your dull tees, pants and dresses can be new by cutting, printing, dyeing, or even painting. You can make your own bookshelves or shoe shelves. Spice up your room every season or whichever theme you feel picking. If you fail on your first try, don’t you ever worry. Every DIY-er failed, on their first attempt or second or third, but we tried... and tried... and tried. Getting artsy once in a while is never too bad.

3. COOK

You admit it or not, you are always eating on summer. Whatever you see on the kitchen or on the fridge, you...eat...them. Sshh! Don’t you ever defend. I cannot blame you, food is our best buddy (well, besides bed). But try scanning your mom’s book of recipes or help her in the kitchen. Nothing substitutes the taste of your own hardwork.

4. Try to play a new instrument

Your playlist may go on and on everyday until you get to memorize every line and every pitch that the singer makes. And then you find yourself getting used to and getting bored. Learning to play a new instrument will never get you any harm. The music that instruments produce gives fireworks in the neurons of our brains. We enjoyed it and yet our brains get to benefit from it.

5. Do some exercise

Health is wealth. Cliche, yes but TRUE. Get up in your bed and please do some moves. It is important to feel good about your body --- not bothering about the society’s standards. You should not miss the chance of exploring the pleasures that life has to offer. Might at as well try challenging yourself for a better and happier you. Love yourself, nobody will love you as far as you do.

6. Engage on social works

Whether you’re people smart or not, it is good to help and lead people. Try to join feeding programs or medical missions in your area. There are government and non-government groups to join in or just be an on-call volunteer. It might be very hard and stressful at first but the smiles and sparkles in the eyes of the people you helped are priceless. The moment they say ‘Thank you’ removes those stress away. You know you’ve touched their lives.

7. Go on a roadtrip

...alone or with a company. There are a lot of things to discover and meeting new people is one. Spend days on a place you’ve never been but make sure to do some research on that place. You might end up a mess. But if you’re risky enough to just throw yourself to places you wanted to explore, then why not? After all, summer is a season to enjoy the heat of the sun.

So I hope that you will try some of these for your summer vacation. Get up and seize the day. Just always remember, the love for freedom can be dangerous but it depends on how you take it.

[ellegals]

2014 was a blast, how about 2015?

Before we bid goodbye to this year. It's good to take a look back to the moments that we had, good and bad. So I collected some moments, sealed in photographs, from the websites that I've been in.

J A N U A R Y

I joined the speech choir competition in the celebration of the CED Days. Moreover, I had a chance to bond with my new block mates. CARDINAL BABIES.

F E B R U A R Y

  I spent the Valentine's Day with my ABEO Family. I didn't had a date, I had dates. Haha So we went to this local food house and had dinner.

M A R C H

March 18 was my birthday, my debut, and I have had a daily photo blog the whole month. And the photos are some things that relates to myself.

A P R I L

I worked on my thesis for ED 198. For a thesis proposal. On a summer. -_-

M A Y 

I did my FIRST EVER booktalk. I talked about "SAIL" by James Patterson and Howard Roughan. I don't know if I'd convinced them to read the book, which is the reason of the booktalk, but there were some who asked to borrow the book.

And also, with my block mates, we went to this Mimbalot Falls in Paradise Resort (local). Yes, hello SUMMAH! (A have a European accent lol)

J U N E

I'm in third year college! Haha just that.

J U L Y

(c) Ivory 

I joined a cultural dance troupe in the institute --- The KALIMULAN Cultural Dance Troupe. I had performed 4 dances local and outside the city. I've always wanted to join the dance troupe since first year college but never had the gut to do so. I was influenced by my friend, who's a member of the troupe, to join.

A U G U S T

Besides my interest into linguistics and education, I'm also interested to FASHION. So I joined LOOKBOOK (lookbook.nu). It's a fashion blog. I share my "not just" OOTD's there. I make photo shoots and editing (lighting matters) on my posts. So yeah, E for Effort. Haha That's my first post, btw. Here's the link on my LB http://lookbook.nu/user/3324117-Krystel-G

Photographer and MUA: Ms. Stefhel G. Antivo

And we [with the Kalimulan members and director, Sir Christian Aguado] went to Malaybalay City, Bukidnon for the Kaamulan Festival. It was a really great experience seeing real tribes performing. I was in a total fascination.

S E P T E M B E R

Hmm I don't know what happened to Semptember. Hmm

We joined the city's celebration highlights for Diyandi Festival of Iligan City. We were on the streets on like 5:30 A.M and waited for hours for the contestants of the street dancing competition. Don't get me wrong, there's no festival like festivals in the Philippines. 

O C T O B E R

So I had a chance to babysit. I mean take over with the class I'm observing as a student-teacher (Hello real world!). I got to experience the feeling of handling a 5th grade class of more or less 40 students in 4 hours because the teacher has to attend a meeting so he left me assessing the students with a book activity. Guess what? After 1 or 2 hours they finished the book activity. The students got bored and noisy so I have to do something. I used all my mental games just to keep them in their seats. You know children. My patience was really tested. Yes, it's exhausting but I've learned a lot.

N O V E M B E R

I became a Festival Queen on our PintaFlores booth for our Folklore subject. The theme was festival, obviously. SO we had this 'pakulo' of putting a Festival Queen for entertaining the judges. We won 2nd place. At least. And we were on the 1st place for overall.

D E C E M B E R

That's me, my mom and my sister *insert dad*. My dad's in heaven now. I miss him so much. But then at least I have them. I love my family. Besides the Almighty God, I also have them as my strength.

So yeah, that sums up my 2014. I guess the best part is the people that crossed my way this year. I am so blessed with these people around me. I am looking forward for 2015. I hope that next year would be greater and better. I know that there will be more adventure, opportunities, 'firsts' and 'lasts', explorations, problems, misunderstandings but without these I'd never be better.

New year's Resolution? I think I won't do it this time because I honestly forget it after New Year's Eve. LOL. I'm just working with my wishlists turned into bucket lists. Maybe I'm going to post it here too. So  how's your 2014?

[ellegals]

When it's time to let go

I know you love someone. This person means a lot to you, maybe means the whole world to you. You drown yourself of the feeling that's so beautiful inside. You don't bother the people around. What you see, what you hear are the things you only wanted.

But what if, it's not meant to be?

You begin to immobilize. You isolate to those who judge. They may plea, they may curse but it's your life, you don't care. Yes, your love is true, that's absolutely beyond doubt. But maybe this time, it's not worth it. It is not working. It is not healthy. You are hurt. Everybody is. You have to wake-up, and stop laying down on your couch or in your bed. Stop stalking. If you cannot change it, you SHOULD accept it. Admission is braver than that denial inside you. You may scream. You may cry. But after all that pain, you begin a day with a new you. Life is later that you think.

[ellegals]

Badong Exhibit: One time experience

I badly wanted to come to this exhibit in the university. However, due to innumerable paper works and projects it's hard for me to pay a visit. Fortunately, I got the chance to, at the last day of the exhibit. The exhibit was from the CCP (Cultural Center of the Philippines). I am much aware that my friends have come to see the exhibit so I decided to go alone.

I wasn't wrong that I paid a visit. I was stunned by Salvador Bernal's creations; from his poems, costume designs, stage designs and achievements in his timeline.

Costumes are from the stage play Realizing Rama: Tradition Transformed. I took Survey of Asian Literature class and it held me to a thought about the Sanskrit Ramayana by Valmiki of India. I'm astonished of these pieces, most especially that I got to see them wore by the actors in a video presentation inside the exhibit.

Stages:

I really can't imagine how these stages come to life. Good thing there were videos of these stages used for real. Awesome.

And these were the poems. :)

"It is where you're passionate about that make you happy. The costs on the production of the stages doesn't matter"

I remember Sir Badong said something like this on a VTR. True, a passion is what keeps us going of something. To know what it is and to go for it is just so brave. I salute Sir Badong for that. Now, we see and enjoy this abundance of extraordinary art pieces.

[ellegals]

There was this dancing lady from one of the replicas of Salvador Bernal's designed stage. This was an excerpt from the stage drama "Engkantada".

[the-final-sentence]

But, like loving someone who was never there for you, I do it anyway.

Shane Koyczan, from Stickboy (via the-final-sentence)

[ellegals]

Experience KAAMULAN Festival

Festivals in Philippines are exceptional. This is where people can get into the culture of the country with days of the celebrations. Blasts in sight are the undying devotions to tribes, traditions, beliefs. Especially festivals held in places like Bukidnon, where there live Higaonon from the Higaonon tribe. “Kaamulan” is from the Binukid word amul which means “to gather”. It is a gathering of Bukidnon tribes people for a purpose (it's up to you to research for more of this festival). Last August 29, 2012, Prof. Aguado (Professor of Anthropology and the adviser/co-founder of Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology's Kalimulan Dance Troupe) together with my Kalimulan family and other fellow IITians went to Malaybalay, Bukidnon to witness the Kaamulan Festival.

My first. My first to travel to Bukidnon. My first to witness the street dancing or a street dancing, for so long. My endurance for standing is, quite, less *chuckles*. Thus, explains how bewitching the performances were. I saw local authentic Higaonon performed (4th and 8th photographs). And the floats. The floats were moving, with the instrumentalists of each contender on top. The costumes were very colorful which was making the atmosphere livelier and livelier. The taboos are innumerable. If you're looking for clothes, accessories, food, etc. it's a one-stop-shop. My best bargain is a black shorts for only 40 pesos. Imagine? You can never go with thrifts. The people were so warm and friendly. We even get to an exposure from a resident photographer. On our last night stay, the most awaited FOGS visit us. If only I could catch them and bring it home. So I just felt the moment. Enjoying 'til its last. Well, what can you expect from a city girl; wake-up in a hot morning and sleep in a warm night. We stayed in Bukidnon for almost three days. When the time for going home is in we were welcomed by the humid spirit of BER months. It was rainy and air-y. I didn't took a bath because YOLO every morning's like an ice bucket challenge. Good thing I have my favorite red tribal scarf and light washed grey cardigan. An outfit good to go for that kind of weather. Overall, the experience was enormous. No, that's an understatement.

Photo credits to Sam Andig.

[ellegals]

A poem was sent to me a few days ago by Jefferson. This friend of mine is passionate of making such beautiful poems. He shared this one to me, in thin air. I really don't know why. The thing that I remember was that, I was just so happy receiving this literary piece. He often make poems and post it on Facebook. All that have known him are bewitched by his mystical metaphors and caressing mixture of imagery. I told him to share this to the world. Make a blog, for example. I hope that he'd take my suggestion. I would really be happy to see him publish a book of poems in the future. Like his favourite poet: Edgar Allan Poe.

[openyoureyesandlooknorthhh]

[floralls]

(by esther man)

[ellegals]

Been lately preoccupied by spilled thoughts.